Sex With a Menstrual Cup: Yes or No?

Period sex: It's already taboo enough. But with the growing popularity of sustainable period products like menstrual cups, you may have found yourself wondering if it's okay to have intercourse while using one. First off, there’s absolutely no reason to feel awkward or ashamed about having sex during your period. It’s totally natural, and lots of people enjoy it without any issues. However, adding a menstrual cup into the mix does come with its own set of things to consider.

You’ve probably heard whispers that using a menstrual cup can make period sex less "messy." And while that may be true for non-penetrative sex, it doesn’t completely eliminate it. Like all sex, the experience will depend on your body, the type of cup you use, and the style of intimacy. It’s all about finding what works for you!

Can you have sex with a menstrual cup in?

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: Is it physically possible to have penetrative sex while wearing a menstrual cup? The short answer is no, at least not comfortably or safely. Most traditional menstrual cups, like the silicone ones that sit inside your vaginal canal, are not designed to be worn during penetrative sex, as they can be uncomfortable for both partners and may even cause leakage. Not the sexy scenario most of us envision!

Here’s why it doesn’t really work in practice. A menstrual cup sits high in the vaginal canal and relies on suction to stay in place. Penetrative sex disrupts both the positioning and the seal, which means the cup can shift, lose suction, or get pushed painfully against the vaginal walls or cervix. That pressure can feel uncomfortable or even painful for the person wearing the cup, and many partners can feel the rim or base during penetration, which is not exactly a vibe.

There’s also the leakage issue. Once the seal is broken, menstrual fluid can spill out, especially if the cup is partially full. According to 2019 research from Elsevier, menstrual cups are designed for period protection during daily activities, not during penetrative intercourse, because movement can dislodge the cup and cause leaks or discomfort. Menstrual products like cups need space to sit properly, which penetration simply doesn’t allow for.

If you’re hoping for period sex without the mess, removing the cup beforehand is the safest and most comfortable option. Some people explore period-specific discs that sit higher up near the cervix and are marketed as more sex-compatible, but traditional menstrual cups are a no-go for penetrative sex. Your comfort, your partner’s comfort, and your vaginal health all matter here, and forcing a cup to do a job it wasn’t designed for just isn’t worth it.

Can you have sex with a Diva Cup?

Short answer: no. The Diva Cup is a traditional menstrual cup that sits inside the vaginal canal and relies on a seal to stay in place, which means it’s not designed for penetrative sex.

During intercourse, penetration can push the cup out of position, break the seal, and cause discomfort or leaking. Partners may also feel the rim or base, which can make sex awkward or uncomfortable. DivaCup’s own guidance states that the cup should be removed before penetrative sex, since it needs space to sit correctly and work as intended.

Menstrual cup vs. menstrual disc: What's the difference?

At a glance, menstrual cups and menstrual discs might look similar, but where they sit in your body makes a big difference, especially when sex is involved. Cups and discs are both internal period products designed to collect menstrual blood, but only one of them is compatible with penetrative sex. Understanding the anatomy here clears up a lot of confusion and can save you from some very uncomfortable trial and error.

What is a menstrual cup?

Menstrual cups are small, flexible cups typically made of medical-grade silicone that are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. They've gained traction in recent years due to their eco-friendly nature, cost-effectiveness, and convenience.

Unlike tampons or pads, menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. They sit in the vaginal canal, unlike tampons, and create a seal against the vaginal walls to prevent leaks. This positioning is crucial to understanding when considering sexual activity.

That snug placement in the vaginal canal is exactly why sex doesn’t really work with a cup in place. The cup occupies the same space penetration needs, and the suction that keeps it leak-free can be disrupted by movement. Menstrual cups are designed for everyday activities like walking, sleeping, and exercising, not intercourse, because displacement can cause pain or leaking.

What is a menstrual disc?

A menstrual disc sits much higher in the vagina, tucked into the vaginal fornix just below the cervix. Instead of relying on suction, it stays in place by resting behind the pubic bone. Its shape is flatter and wider than a cup, more like a shallow bowl than a bell.

Because discs sit above the vaginal canal rather than inside it, penetration can happen below the disc without knocking it out of place. That anatomical difference is why discs are often described as sex-compatible. According to manufacturers like Flex, menstrual discs are designed to allow penetrative sex while still collecting menstrual blood, which sets them apart from traditional cups.

If you’re a visual thinker, here’s the simplest way to picture it: A cup blocks the canal itself. A disc sits at the top, out of the way. That’s the reason cups and penetrative sex don’t mix, while discs can make period sex possible for some people.

Menstrual disc and sex: Your best option for mess-free period sex

If you're set on penetrative sex during your period but still want the benefits of an internal menstrual product, you might want to consider a menstrual disc, like the Flex or Softdisc, instead. Unlike cups, discs sit higher in the vagina and are made to stay in place during intercourse, which reduces mess while offering the same benefits as a regular menstrual cup.

As you’re considering it, it’s always good to experiment with what feels comfortable for you and your partner. Just be aware that neither menstrual cups nor discs serves as a form of birth control or protection against STIs.

So how does this actually work during sex? A menstrual disc sits at the very top of the vaginal canal, just under the cervix, tucked behind the pubic bone, which means penetration happens below the disc rather than into it. During intercourse, the disc stays put while continuing to collect menstrual fluid. According to guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, discs are shaped to sit near the cervix and do not rely on suction, which is why movement from sex is less likely to dislodge them compared to cups. The result is usually far less mess, though it’s worth saying out loud that “less” doesn’t mean “none.” Some spotting can still happen, especially on heavier flow days or if the disc shifts.

In terms of sensation, most people don’t feel the disc once it’s in place, and many partners don’t notice it either. That said, bodies vary. You might feel mild pressure, or you might feel nothing at all. A little trial and error is normal, and finding the right size and firmness of the disc makes a big difference.

Best menstrual cup for sex (spoiler: it's actually a disc)

If you’ve ever searched for the best menstrual cup for sex, you’re not alone. That phrase gets searched a lot, but what most people are actually looking for is a menstrual disc. Traditional cups sit in the vaginal canal and aren’t compatible with penetrative sex. Discs are the option designed with sex in mind.

Qualities that make a disc work well during intercourse include a flat profile, a flexible rim that can move with your body, enough capacity to handle your flow, and a secure fit behind the pubic bone. Comfort for both partners matters here, as does confidence that the disc will stay put.

Our favorite menstrual discs for period sex

Not all menstrual discs are created equal, especially when sex is part of the equation. Fit, flexibility, and capacity can make a real difference in comfort and confidence. Here are a few discs that tend to work particularly well for period sex, whether you’re new to discs or looking to upgrade:

1. Flex Menstrual Disc: Flex discs have a soft, flexible rim that adapts well to movement, which is helpful during sex. They also offer high capacity, making them a solid choice for heavier flow days.
2. Softdisc Menstrual Disc: Softdisc is similar in design to Flex and is often recommended for first-time disc users. The rim is sturdy enough to stay in place but still comfortable during intercourse.
3. Cora Soft Fit Disc: Cora’s disc has a softer, more flexible rim and a finger notch for easier removal. That softer design can be especially appealing if comfort during sex is your top priority.
4. Pixie Menstrual Disc: Pixie discs come in multiple sizes, which can help you dial in the right fit for your anatomy. A better fit often means better stability and less mess during sex.

Menstrual discs aren’t magic, but for many people, they’re the closest thing to stress-free period sex. If penetrative sex during your period matters to you, a disc is usually the most realistic and body-friendly option to try.

Sex with menstrual cup: Other intimacy options

If menstrual discs aren't necessarily your thing, this still doesn't mean that all sexual activity is off the table. There are plenty of ways to enjoy intimacy and pleasure during your period, with or without your menstrual cup.

As with all aspects of sexual health, open and honest communication with your partner is essential. Discuss your comfort levels, preferences, and any concerns you might have about sex during menstruation. Remember, there's no "right" or "wrong" way to approach this; it's all about what feels good to you and your partner.

Non-penetrative sex with a menstrual cup

For those who prefer to keep their cup in place, there are numerous other ways to be intimate. Mutual masturbation, oral sex (focusing on the clitoris rather than penetration), and using sex toys externally are all great alternatives. Some couples even find that the heightened sensitivity many women experience during menstruation can lead to extra-enjoyable non-penetrative sexual experiences.

Keeping your menstrual cup in doesn’t limit closeness; it just shifts the focus. Touch, kissing, massage, grinding, and sensual play can all feel deeply connected without involving penetration. Research published in 2018 in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy has shown that clitoral stimulation alone is enough for orgasm for many women, reinforcing that penetration isn’t required for satisfying sex.

This can also be a great time to explore what feels good without pressure. Period sex doesn’t have to follow a script, and intimacy can look different from one cycle to the next. Listening to your body and leaning into comfort can open the door to pleasure that’s just as real, even if it’s a little less conventional.

Removing your cup for sex

If you're comfortable with removing your cup for sex, that's certainly an option. You can take it out, engage in penetrative sex, and then reinsert the cup afterward. Just remember to wash your hands thoroughly before reinsertion to minimize the risk of infection.

Timing helps here. Removing your cup right before sex can reduce the amount of menstrual flow you’re dealing with, especially if you’ve recently emptied it. It can also make things feel less rushed and more relaxed. Having a plan for cleanup goes a long way, too. Keep tissues, a towel, wipes, or even a quick-access bathroom nearby so you’re not scrambling mid-moment.

Good hygiene matters when reinserting your cup. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes proper handwashing with soap and water before inserting any internal menstrual product to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria into the vagina. Menstrual cups are safe to reuse when cleaned properly and handled with clean hands between uses. A little prep can make removing and reinserting your cup feel simple, comfortable, and totally worth it.

Hygiene and safety for period sex

Regardless of how you choose to approach sex during your period, it's crucial to maintain proper hygiene practices. This is especially important if you're removing and reinserting a menstrual cup.

Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling your cup or engaging in sexual activity. If you're removing your cup for sex, make sure to clean it properly before reinsertion. Most importantly, listen to your body. If something doesn't feel right, stop and reassess.

Beyond cleanliness, it’s worth remembering that period sex doesn’t change the basics of sexual health. Menstrual cups and discs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy. If STI prevention matters for you, barrier methods like condoms are still important. The World Health Organization notes that some STIs can be transmitted more easily when blood is present, which makes protection and communication even more relevant during menstruation.

Infection risk is another reason to be mindful. Reinserting a cup with unwashed hands or a cup that hasn’t been cleaned can introduce bacteria into the vagina. If you notice symptoms like unusual discharge, a strong odor, itching, burning, pelvic pain, or fever after period sex, it’s a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider.

Can you have intercourse with a menstrual cup safely?

With traditional menstrual cups, penetrative intercourse isn’t recommended. These cups sit in the vaginal canal and can be pushed out of place during sex, which may cause pain, leaking, or even minor injury to vaginal tissue or the cervix. Trying to make it work can also increase irritation and disrupt the vaginal environment.

If penetrative sex during your period is important to you, a menstrual disc is the safer alternative. Discs sit higher in the vaginal fornix and don’t rely on suction, which is why they’re designed to stay in place during intercourse. Choosing the right product for the kind of sex you’re having helps protect your comfort, your health, and your peace of mind.

Tips for the best period sex experience

Period sex can be great, but a little preparation and a lot of communication can make it even better. These practical tips are all about reducing stress, managing mess, and helping you stay focused on pleasure instead of logistics.

• Talk it through first: Open and honest communication is essential. Let your partner know what you’re comfortable with, whether you’re keeping a cup or disc in, and how you’re feeling about potential mess. Clear expectations help everyone relax and enjoy the moment.
• Lay down a towel or blanket: A dark towel or dedicated “period sex” blanket can take anxiety off the table completely. When you’re not worried about the sheets, it’s much easier to stay present.
• Try shower sex: Shower sex can feel more carefree during your period since water helps wash away blood and simplifies cleanup. Just keep in mind that water isn’t a lubricant, so adding a body-safe lube can make things more comfortable.
• Choose positions thoughtfully: Positions where you’re lying on your back or side may feel more manageable for some people, especially on heavier days. Elevated or standing positions can increase flow, so paying attention to what feels best for your body matters.
• Keep cleanup supplies nearby: Having wipes, tissues, or a washcloth within reach means you won’t need to interrupt the moment. Planning ahead makes everything feel smoother and less awkward.
• Adjust the lighting if you’re self-conscious: Softer or dim lighting can help you focus on sensation instead of worrying about how things look. Comfort plays a big role in pleasure, and this is an easy way to support that.
• Stay flexible and check in: Period sex doesn’t have to look one specific way. Checking in during sex and adjusting as needed keeps the experience positive and pressure-free.

When you feel prepared and supported, period sex can be just as satisfying as any other kind. A little intention goes a long way.

Period sex, your way

Sex during your period doesn’t have to be an automatic no or something you push through uncomfortably. The big takeaway is simple. Traditional menstrual cups aren’t meant for penetrative sex, menstrual discs can be a good option if that’s something you want to try, and there are plenty of satisfying ways to stay intimate that don’t involve penetration at all. What matters most is choosing what feels right for your body, your comfort, and your relationship.

If penetrative period sex is on your wish list, a disc is worth exploring. It’s designed to sit out of the way and can reduce mess while keeping things comfortable for both partners. And if that’s not your vibe, that’s completely valid too. Intimacy can look like many different things, especially during your period.

So go forth, explore, and celebrate your body in all its phases: menstrual cup, period sex, and all! After all, that's what sexual empowerment is all about.